“…the all-new Shelby GT500 takes the sixth-generation Mustang to a performance level once reserved only for exotics.”Hermann Salenbauch, Global Director, Ford Performance Vehicle Programs
“Carroll was always working on the next faster Shelby, I think he would love this Mustang more than any other,” said Jim Farley, Ford president, global markets. “A takedown artist, the new Shelby GT500 will surprise supercar owners with its Ford Performance racing tech, supercharged engine and visceral swagger.”
The Shelby GT500’s aero-led design increases downforce and thermal management, while Ford Performance race-tuned active chassis drive modes make this the most advanced performance Mustang ever. At the track, performance improves even more thanks to its race-bred chassis, custom Michelin tires and the largest front brake rotors ever available on an American sports coupe.
The Shelby GT500 is powered by a handbuilt supercharged 5.2-litre aluminum alloy engine. To keep the intake air cooler and deliver a lower center of gravity, the 2.65-litre roots-type supercharger with air-to-liquid intercooler was inverted and tucked in the V8 engine valley. Like the Shelby GT350, the aluminum alloy block features weight-saving wire-arc cylinder liners and high-flow aluminum cylinder heads, plus larger forged connecting rods, improved lubrication and cooling passages. A structural oil pan adds strength, reduces vibration, and features a patented active baffle system to keep oil where it is needed. The Tremec 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, which is capable of shifts in under 100 milliseconds, offers a number of drive modes, including normal, weather, sport, drag and track, and activates features like line-lock and launch control through selectable Track Apps.
Shelby GT500 takes advantage of revised suspension geometry, a new electronic power steering unit and lighter-weight coil springs front and rear. Next-generation active MagneRide™ suspension is baked-in, along with the latest in advanced drive mode technologies from Ford Performance. The payoff is the highest-ever lateral acceleration from a Mustang for greater track performance and driver control.
Two handling packages with increasing levels capability are offered for the all-new Shelby GT500. An available Handling Package includes splitter wickers with integrated dive plane, adjustable adjustable strut top mounts and spoiler with Gurney flap. For the truly hardcore, an available Carbon Fiber Track Package features exposed 20-inch carbon fiber wheels with 0.5-inch-wider rear wheels (11.5-inch), custom Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, adjustable exposed carbon fiber GT4 track wing and splitter wickers with integrated dive plane. The rear seat is deleted to reduce weight.
“With a double front grille opening and 50 per cent more cooling pack airflow versus the Shelby GT350, along with the most advanced aero components and downforce we’ve ever offered, every millimeter of Shelby GT500’s fastback design is aimed at improving performance,” said Melvin Betancourt, Ford design manager.
New colours for 2020 include Red Hot, Twister Orange and Iconic Silver. Painted stripes are also available.
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